The cricketing world is buzzing with anticipation as Uganda prepares to make their debut at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Their 15-man squad, led by captain Brian Masaba, has been officially announced, and the Cricket Cranes are poised to take on the challenge of Group C.
Seasoned Leadership and Experience
Masaba will be ably supported by vice-captain Riazat Ali Shah, and the squad boasts several players with over a decade of international experience. A notable figure is 43-year-old Frank Nsubuga, who will be one of the oldest players in the tournament.
Nsubuga’s selection is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the sport. He first represented Uganda in ICC events at the tender age of 17, participating in the 1997 ICC Trophy, a pathway event leading to the 1999 Cricket World Cup. His selection for the T20 World Cup marks a remarkable 25-year journey.
Spin-Bowling All-Rounders and Rising Stars
Uganda’s squad also features exciting young talent alongside seasoned veterans. Spin-bowling all-rounder Alpesh Ramjani, nominated for the 2023 ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year award, is expected to continue his impressive form. He was the leading wicket-taker in men’s T20I cricket last year, claiming 55 wickets with an exceptional economy rate. Fellow left-arm spinner Henry Ssenyondo is another key player, having bagged 49 wickets in 2023.
Riazat Ali Shah and Dinesh Nakrani add firepower to the batting lineup, while youngster Juma Miyaji brings valuable experience from the 2022 U19 World Cup in the West Indies.
A Historic Moment for Ugandan Cricket
While this marks Uganda’s maiden appearance at a senior men’s World Cup, the country has a rich cricketing history, having participated in global events through the now-defunct East Africa team that played in the 1975 Cricket World Cup. Samuel Walusimbi, the sole Ugandan player in that squad, featured in three matches.
The Cricket Cranes begin their T20 World Cup journey on June 3rd, facing Afghanistan in Guyana. The entire nation will be behind them as they strive to make a lasting impression on the global cricketing stage.
Ugandaâs Squad for T20 World Cup 2024: Brian Masaba (c), Simon Ssesazi, Roger Mukasa, Cosmas Kyewuta, Dinesh Nakrani, Fred Achelam, Kenneth Waiswa, Alpesh Ramjani, Frank Nsubuga, Henry Ssenyondo, Bilal Hassun, Robinson Obuya, Riazat Ali Shah (vc), Juma Miyaji, Ronak Patel.
Travelling Reserves: Innocent Mwebaze, Ronald Lutaaya
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram and Instagram
